Wednesday, 2 March 2016

DIY: M is for mum | the perfect, handmade Mother's Day present

So it's the week of Mother's Day and if you're still thinking of the perfect, unique gift for your mum/nana/auntie/whoever, then why not try something handmade?

You don't have to be into crafting particularly to make a present as it is the personal touch that adds to the sentimentality. This year I decided to create my own bespoke 'M' with a shabby chic theme. Letters are increasing in popularity and I thought instead of buying one from the shops, hand making one and adding certain elements I know would suit my mums personality would be nicer. It was quick and cheap to make but still is a cute little present to give your mum this Sunday!

1. Trace around your letter shape onto your decorative paper. I've chosen a pretty, pink rose wallpaper I found in B&Q. Make sure to trace x2 of the letter - one for the front and one for the back.Step 2:

2. Put the paper to one side and now paint around the letter edges. Try not to do more than x2 coats of paint as it could soak and run into the letter if it is paper/cardboard material.

* Leave this to dry for 40-60 minutes.

Step 3:

3. Once dry you can now stick your cut outs onto your letter.

* It's easier to apply the glue to the letter as if you apply it to the paper it could curl and become a nightmare to stick straight down.

Step 4:

4. Now you can begin to decorate your letter. My theme was based around shabby chic, so I am taking old photographs of me and my mum and cutting them to size, adding a lace trimming border around the edges.

* The lace border can be very fiddly. I applied the glue just in the corners of the photograph and gently placed down the lace and left to dry for about half an hour. This may seem lengthy, but it ensured the lace was secure. Once it is, you can stick it down to your letter and apply more glue to it if needed.

You don't have to go with the shabby chic theme there are many different themes you could choose from, depending on the recipient of your gifts preferences. Some examples could be:

These are so cute! I did a similar project last year for mothers day but I spelt out the word MUM and attached each letter with string so that she could hang it anywhere she wanted! I love the touch of lace so I will definitely be doing that this year hahha :) xx